Top 5 Epic Experiences and Things to do in Ottawa

Written by Hassan Khan

If you are looking for a family-friendly and unforgettable experience in Canada then be sure to head to the wonderous city of Ottawa, a place known for its endless number of activities and experiences. Have a look at the beautiful panoramic views and activities of this city that defines this place for what it truly is! From paintballing to fascinating museums and the great outdoors around every corner, Ottawa is the perfect family-friendly destination! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, or are looking to roam around and try new things, you’ll find plenty of great experiences in Ottawa.

1. Ottawa Paintball Game

If you are in for a thrill, you must be sure to check out this epic team paintballing game! Throughout this epic game, you and your family or friends will get to experience 12-14 themed games such as trekking through the jungle to find an ancient stone pyramid in the Tomb Raider scenario or escaping capture by the enemy as you navigate through a dark and thrilling trail. You’ll be dodging through the lightning-speed paint pallets as you hunt down the enemy in various missions and experiences. Be sure to check out this experience, as an epic way to get out of your comfort zone and test your teamwork, leadership and perseverance skills. We can guarantee that this is an experience worth your time!

2. Canadian Museum of Nature

Something a little less intense than paintballing yet just as fun and interesting would be visiting the Canadian Museum of Nature. Spend an afternoon learning about unique dinosaur fossils and take a few hours to learn about the variety of life in our seas and lakes. If you’re interested in learning about other species and their lifestyles such as birds, insects, and other wild animals, then the Canadian Museum of Nature is something you should definitely have on your list of places to go. The museum takes on the entire natural world in a number of jaw-dropping exhibits that will undoubtedly have you wanting to spend the whole day there. It’s difficult to put into words just how remarkable it is to see the entire skeleton of the biggest animal on earth— the blue whale, it’s something you just must see for yourself!

Ottawa Water Rafting Adventure

3. White Water Rafting on the Ottawa River

The Ottawa River is believed to have some of the best Whitewater rafting experiences ever. This adventure raft is epic for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of exhilaration. In this adventure raft, you and your loved ones will get to experience the vigorous waters of Canada’s legendary Ottawa River. You’ll get your feet wet as you splatter and slide through one of the world’s great Whitewater routes. OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River is a long-running family resort, well-known and recognized for its significance on detail, phenomenal service, and locally sourced food.

It has been remembered as a Canadian Signature Experience. Soon after, you climb aboard the Pontoon boat, for a hearty hot barbequed feast on the return cruise to the resort. Finally, wrap up your rafting adventure by relishing in a sauna or a hot outdoor shower and enjoying the sandy beach.

4. Visit the Rideau Canal

When in Ottawa, be sure to pay a visit to the historic Rideau Canal! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prominent attraction that subtly incorporates its way through Ottawa’s dazzling downtown central. Lots of people know the Rideau Canal as the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink coming in at a whopping 7.8 km long, but it also has many more hidden treasures. The Canal is an ongoing location for epic outdoor experiences and entertainment. In the winter, you get to enjoy an ice skate along the frozen river, sliding your way through downtown Ottawa. Not to mention, in the summertime, you can also take a voyageur canoe down the same waters or enjoy yourself on a relaxing boat cruise. You can also explore the canal by walking, running or cycling along its banks. So be sure to stop by the Rideau Canal when in Ottawa and uncover it’s hidden treasures!

5. Ottawa Scavenger Hunt

If you’re in search of a family-friendly and fun activity in Ottawa, then this is the experience for you! Operation City Quest is an open-world scavenger hunt, where you use your phone to search for items distributed within the city and complete various tasks. In this scavenger hunt, you will be walking with your group and have the opportunity to enhance your teamwork and cooperation skills.

You will stroll through the downtown area searching for various objects which will be provided to you via a list through an app on your phone. After you have found the object, you will send a photo in to gain some points. All throughout, you will be doing different tasks and challenges for more points. In total, you will have 13 categories of objects to look for during this stroll in the city.

Not to mention, you’ll have a guide that you can text during the duration of the game if you need any help. They will also give you boosts of motivation and provide you with hints throughout your adventure! Is there a more unique way to take a tour of the city while completing this Scavenger Hunt?

Scavenger Hunt - Operation City

These are just a few places to visit in Ottawa. Of course, there are so much more that we have in store for you. This list only touches the surface of an enormous and lively city loaded with activities and unique places for you to see. Get started! And be sure to use these suggestions to take you on a journey through Ottawa’s attractions that are honestly worth visiting. Be sure to check out our experience collection for some epic sales and fun things to do in the Capital of Canada! They will genuinely improve your entire experience.

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